Cohen Milstein
Cohen Milstein is a national litigation firm esteemed for its steadfast pursuit of social and economic justice. Headquartered in Washington, DC, the firm distinguishes itself through a culture rooted in advocacy, equity, and purposeful impact. When the opportunity arose to consolidate operations onto a single floor within its existing building, the client engaged OTJ to lead the transformation – one that would recast the built environment as a contemporary, high-efficiency vehicle that affirms the practice’s identity while supporting the requirements of a hybrid workforce.
The design process was shaped by a shared commitment to intentionality and collaboration. Although workplace strategy had been developed prior to OTJ’s involvement, our team worked closely with the client’s leadership to validate and refine the program through visioning sessions and site-based observations. Our design solutions increase spatial efficiency, celebrate a refreshed corporate brand, and encourage staff to return to the office. Accordingly, the resulting program unifies operations on one floor and introduces a hospitality-forward experience that balances focus and connection.
To improve circulation and maximize usable space, our team widened primary corridors from five to six feet, which allowed for smaller, standardized perimeter offices and an intuitive flow throughout the space. To allow for light penetration deep into the floorplate, a continuous linear lighting system was installed along office fronts, replacing traditional downlighting to softly illuminate the corridors. Site visits during firm events informed the design of a centrally located café, easily accessible from these main paths and conceived to accommodate all-staff breakfasts and lunches. To support visual privacy and more clearly define shared collaboration hubs, a repeated screening element was introduced throughout the space. Meanwhile, acoustic attenuation was enhanced through layered ceiling treatments and integrated finishes that support both discretion and comfort. Materials were carefully curated to balance function and warmth: tiles with subtle texture, finishes that feel lived-in, and colors that convey a calm, professional tone. During design, staff members were invited to test glass treatments in real time, creating opportunities for engagement that directly informed the final product selection.
The aesthetic draws inspiration from modern hospitality environments, emphasizing clean lines, warm tones, and layered textures. Our designers integrated a palette that moves away from heavy, red-centric branding toward subtler warm tones. The reimagined office prioritizes thoughtful detailing and materiality to inspire, connect, and endure.
Location
Washington, DC
Size
40,000 RSF
Industry
Legal
Services
Interiors
The reimagined workplace of a national litigation firm rooted in social justice consolidates operations to maximize efficiency while enhancing engagement.
